Role: Criminal Defence Paralegal
Location: Leeds City Centre, West Yorkshire
Contract: Full time, permanent, hybrid
Salary: £24,000 - £26,000

A well-established and progressive Yorkshire-based law firm is seeking a capable and motivated Paralegal to join its busy Criminal Defence team at its Leeds city centre head office.
With a strong regional presence and a large multi-office network, the firm operates under an employee-owned model, meaning every member of staff contributes to and benefits from the firm’s ongoing success. This structure promotes collaboration, transparency and shared achievement across the business.
This is an excellent opportunity for someone looking to build or further develop a career in criminal defence within a supportive and fast-paced legal environment.
The Role
You will provide hands-on support to solicitors and fee earners across a varied caseload of criminal matters, assisting with both Magistrates’ Court and Crown Court work.
The position offers exposure to cases from initial instruction through to conclusion, making it well suited to a proactive individual who thrives in a dynamic setting.
Key Responsibilities *
Supporting solicitors, fee earners and partners with day-to-day case progression
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Managing a supervised caseload where appropriate
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Assisting with matters from initial client instruction through to file closure and archiving
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Liaising with clients, counsel, courts and third parties
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Preparing and organising case documentation
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Assisting with billing processes and liaising with the Legal Aid Agency where required
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Attending court to support fee earners when necessary
Candidate Profile
The successful candidate will demonstrate:
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Previous experience in a criminal defence or similar legal environment
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Strong client care skills and the ability to communicate confidently with a range of individuals
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The ability to draft clear and accurate written communications for clients and the court
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Confidence in presenting information both orally and in writing
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A structured approach to managing technical legal details
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The ability to work accurately under pressure and meet deadlines
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Strong organisational and prioritisation skills
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A proactive, flexible and team-focused mindset
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Willingness to travel to court where required
The Firm
The firm is widely recognised across Yorkshire for its full-service legal offering and modern approach to practice management. Significant investment has been made in systems, people and processes to ensure an efficient and supportive working environment.
As an employee-owned organisation, staff are encouraged to actively contribute to the firm’s direction and culture. Profit-share distributions are available to eligible employees following 12 months’ service, alongside a comprehensive benefits package.
Core values centre on responsibility, openness, collaboration and community, shaping both client service and internal culture.
About CRA Consulting:
*CRA Consulting are a specialist legal recruiter, operating across the UK. CRA works in partnership with reputable law firms with either local, regional, national or international presence. We recruit at all levels from board, director and partnership level through to support staff.
*For additional information on how we can assist you with your next career move, visit the CRA Consulting Website at www.craconsultants.com.

How to Apply:
*If this vacancy is of interest, please click the apply button. Alternatively, if you would like to discuss with Lauren Hopkinson who is managing this vacancy, call for a confidential discussion.
*Are you wanting to review additional career opportunities? Visit our jobs page at jobs
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